The Chicago Bears reached an agreement for three seasons at offensive tackle Orlando Pace, who was free agent after 12 seasons in the NFL. The big guy Pace (who was born on 4 November 1975 in Sandusky, Ohio) participated in 158 regular season games with St. Louis Rams since joining the NFL in 1997.
“We feel that we recruit to Orlando Pace greatly improve our offensive line,” said Jerry Angelo, general manager of the Chicago Bears.
The St. Louis Rams was discharged to Orlando Pace three weeks ago to release six million dollars in the salary cap. First overall pick in 1997. A busy day for the Chicago Bears was even more entertaining.
With the addition of Pace, the Bears have said their new Pro Bowl quarterback has a Pro Bowl offensive tackle to block his blind side.
Financial terms of the contract were not disclosed Pace.
Pace, seven-time Pro Bowl (1999-2005), has started 154 of 158 games in his career including 12 seasons in the NFL, including 14 games in 2008.
Pace was the first overall pick of the St. Louis Rams in the 1997 draft, out of Ohio State.
Pace was cut by the Rams over a pay dispute. He fits the need for a left tackle for the Bears, who lost to John St. Clair (in free agency) and John Tait (who must be removed).
The Bears also reached an agreement with tackle Kevin Shaffer last week.
Orlando Pace
